In an effort to feed hungry and homeless pets over the holidays, the San Diego Animal Support Foundation will be hosting the THIRD Annual Holiday Pet Food & Toy Drive. Last year's drive brought in approximately 5000 pounds of food which was given to local nonprofit rescue organizations and shelters.

"There are always dozens of organizations that collect toys for children, and food for the poor over the holidays, but this is the only local food drive to benefit the pets...the silent victims of this economy," says Darlene White, Executive Director for the San Diego Animal Support Foundation. "With all the seasonal fundraisers that are happening, it's easy to forget that there are people out there that can't afford to feed their dogs and cats...and we're a culture that considers pets part of the family."

This year, the tax-deductible donations will be collected by the San Diego Animal Support Foundation (SDASF), to create a PET FOOD BANK for people who have lost their jobs or are unable to properly feed their pets due to economic hardship. The food will also be available to foster families who temporarily care for homeless animals for local shelters and rescues.

"When it comes to animals, no donation can be too small," says volunteer Bonnie Barton, who coordinates the Holiday Food & Toy Drive each year. "One squeaky toy will mean the world to a lonely dog in a shelter, and the food may help to prevent a dog from being abandoned by it's family".

Individuals, clubs or pet stores who are interested in collecting dog food and toys at their store, school, church, synagogue, club or in their community, can contact Bonnie Barton, with the San Diego Animal Support Foundation at 619-884-5557 or Bonspaws@yahoo.com. The program will be going on from now until the end of the year.